More and more students at university today are not choosing to study science.
Why is this happening?
What are the effects of this?
Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
Fewer undergraduates today than ever before are opting to pursue careers in science. This is because business related subjects offer greater financial security and this will result in less overall talent in scientific fields.
The main reason that science majors are dwindling is the lure of business. Studying a scientific subject such as biology or chemistry requires intense specification, long hours in labs, and unstable future career options. Business related majors, on the other hand, are guaranteed an easier path to a good salary and the esteem of others. Good evidence of this comes in the form of all the majors related to commerce rapidly growing in popularity including marketing, finance, corporate law, banking, and economics. Parents often put pressure on their children to major in these subjects to secure a minimum level of financial success and raise the ceiling on future earning potential.
The impact will be felt in an overall decrease of talent in science. In the past, science tended to attract the best and brightest students who saw it as a path to personal wealth, glory and the public good. A good example of this is in the decades leading up to World War 2 when advances in medicine and technology of bright individuals like Marie Curie, Alexander Fleming, and Albert Einstein made them immortal role models. Today, our role models are more likely to be businessmen of a sort such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet, and Donald Trump. This is not only evidence of the societal shift but also portends fewer great figures in science going forward.
In conclusion, business has siphoned off potential science majors and this will result in fewer high quality scientists. It is important to highlight the achievements of scientists and denigrate businessmen in order to curb this alarming trend.
Analysis
1. Fewer undergraduates today than ever before are opting to pursue careers in science. 2. This is because business related subjects offer greater financial security and this will result in less overall talent in scientific fields.
Paraphrase the overall topic for the essay first of all.
Write a clear opinion.
1. The main reason that science majors are dwindling is the lure of business. 2. Studying a scientific subject such as biology or chemistry requires intense specification, long hours in labs, and unstable future career options. 3. Business related majors, on the other hand, are guaranteed an easier path to a good salary and the esteem of others. 4. Good evidence of this comes in the form of all the majors related to commerce rapidly growing in popularity including marketing, finance, corporate law, banking, and economics. 5. Parents often put pressure on their children to major in these subjects to secure a minimum level of financial success and raise the ceiling on future earning potential.
Write a topic sentence with a main idea at the end. Keep this sentence short and simply.
Begin to develop your main idea. Here I start with a counter-example.
Then I transition to why business is so appealing.
I develop the appeal of business.
Finally, I add another detail to support my main idea – not a new main idea!
1. The impact will be felt in an overall decrease of talent in science. 2. In the past, science tended to attract the best and brightest students who saw it as a path to personal wealth, glory and the public good. 3. A good example of this is in the decades leading up to World War 2 when advances in medicine and technology of bright individuals like Marie Curie, Alexander Fleming, and Albert Einstein made them immortal role models. 4. Today, our role models are more likely to be businessmen of a sort such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet, and Donald Trump. 5. This is not only evidence of the societal shift but also portends fewer great figures in science going forward.
Write another topic sentence with a main idea for the other side.
Explain your main idea, if necessary.
Use specific examples as I do here.
Develop those examples.
Conclude your paragraph by relating it back to the main topic.
1. In conclusion, business has siphoned off potential science majors and this will result in fewer high quality scientists. 2. It is important to highlight the achievements of scientists and denigrate businessmen in order to curb this alarming trend.
Repeat your opinion.
Add in a final detail/thought for full marks from the IELTS examiner.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Fewer undergraduates today than ever before are opting to pursue careers in science. This is because business related subjects offer greater financial security and this will result in less overall talent in scientific fields.
The main reason that science majors are dwindling is the lure of business. Studying a scientific subject such as biology or chemistry requires intense specification, long hours in labs, and unstable future career options. Business related majors, on the other hand, are guaranteed an easier path to a good salary and the esteem of others. Good evidence of this comes in the form of all the majors related to commerce rapidly growing in popularity including marketing, finance, corporate law, banking, and economics. Parents often put pressure on their children to major in these subjects to secure a minimum level of financial success and raise the ceiling on future earning potential.
The impact will be felt in an overall decrease of talent in science. In the past, science tended to attract the best and brightest students who saw it as a path to personal wealth, glory and the public good. A good example of this is in the decades leading up to World War 2 when advances in medicine and technology of bright individuals like Marie Curie, Alexander Fleming, and Albert Einstein made them immortal role models. Today, our role models are more likely to be businessmen of a sort such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet, and Donald Trump. This is not only evidence of the societal shift but also portends fewer great figures in science going forward.
In conclusion, business has siphoned off potential science majors and this will result in fewer high quality scientists. It is important to highlight the achievements of scientists and denigrate businessmen in order to curb this alarming trend.
Answers
than ever before greater compared to
opting choosing
pursue careers major in/study
offer greater financial security more stable career
result in end up with
dwindling decreasing
lure attraction/appeal
specification becoming focused on one area, opposite of a generalist
labs where scientists work (laboratories)
unstable future career options uncertain job prospects
guaranteed will definitely get
easier path fewer obstacles/challenges
esteem opinion
good evidence strong support
commerce related to buying/selling/trading
marketing advertisting
finance related to money
corporate law becoming a lawyer specialising in companies
put pressure on force
major verb of major (choose to study)
secure a minimum level of financial success guarantee a decent paycheck
raise the ceiling on future earning potential allow for the possibility of big salaries
Remember and fill in the blanks in your head or on a piece of paper:
Fewer undergraduates today t___________________e are o________g to p_________________s in science. This is because business related subjects o_________________________________y and this will r_____________n less overall talent in scientific fields.
The main reason that science majors are d_____________g is the l______e of business. Studying a scientific subject such as biology or chemistry requires intense s______________n, long hours in l____s, and u______________________________s. Business related majors, on the other hand, are g___________d an e________h to a good salary and the e________m of others. G_______________e of this comes in the form of all the majors related to c_____________e rapidly growing in popularity including m___________g, f_____________e, c__________________w, banking, and economics. Parents often p________________n their children to m_____r in these subjects to s________________________________________________s and r_______________________________________________l.
The i_____________________________t in an overall decrease of talent in science. In the past, science t__________________o attract the b____________________________t students who saw it as a p___________________________________h, g___________y and t___________________d. A good example of this is in the decades l_________________o World War 2 when advances in medicine and technology of b______________________s like Marie Curie, Alexander Fleming, and Albert Einstein made them i________________________s. Today, our role models are more likely to be businessmen o_____________t such as Steve Jobs, Warren Buffet, and Donald Trump. This is not only evidence of the s_______________t but also p________________s fewer great figures in science g_______________d.
In conclusion, business has s_________________f potential science majors and this will result in fewer high quality scientists. It is important to h______________t the achievements of scientists and d______________e businessmen in order to c_______b this a_____________________d.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Listen to a well-known scientist on this topic and get some ideas:
Answer the following question below then read my sample answer:
Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business, and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.
Discuss both these views and then give your own opinion.
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer esssay from the general training exam on the topic of getting advice from old people.
Usually I write about both sides in agree/disagree questions but for this one I decided to just agree.
Check out the structure in the analysis below.
Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!
Dave
Before reading, listen to the audio below to improve your listening skills:
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay General Training: Advice from Old People (Real IELTS Exam/Test)
Many people think that it is better to get advice from old rather than young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
There is a growing tendency to seek advice from older, instead of younger, people. In my opinion, this is prudent because older people are less narcissistic and have more mature viewpoints.
Recent research has confirmed the suspicion that our seniors are less self-involved. Just as children begin as complete narcissists incapable of feeling empathy, young people must also work through trauma, hurtful pride and delusions to become healthy. When you get a job, work as part of a team, form friendships and have lovers, you will naturally uncover your own unhealthy drives and slowly replace them with socially constructive ones. This expanded confidence and self-growth allows you to truly listen to what others are saying and be capable of giving sound advice disentangled from personal insecurities.
The other reason that older people give better advice is that they have opinions shaped through years of experience. Young people tend to be more idealistic and less willing to consider what is pragmatic. If an individual has had a family they will have to navigate work/life balance issues, raising a child, intimacy, and financial obstacles. They will develop coping mechanisms and methods to deal with these problems and be able to pass them on to anyone in search of guidance. Young people could give similar advice, but since it is not based on experience and has not been tested, it is less likely to be effective.
In conclusion, a settled temperament and experience are the factors that favour the counsel of older people. As young people become old people, it is increasingly likely they will see the veracity of this.
Analysis
1. There is a growing tendency to seek advice from older, instead of younger, people. 2. In my opinion, this is prudent because older people are less narcissistic and have more mature viewpoints.
Paraphrase the overall topic for the essay.
Write your opinion – it must be 100% clear. In this one, I decided to agree because I have two separate main reasons that I can develop.
1. Recent research has confirmed the suspicion that our seniors are less self-involved. 2. Just as children begin as complete narcissists incapable of feeling empathy, young people must also work through trauma, hurtful pride and delusions to become healthy. 3. When you get a job, work as part of a team, form friendships and have lovers, you will naturally uncover your own unhealthy drives and slowly replace them with socially constructive ones. 4. This expanded confidence and self-growth allows you to truly listen to what others are saying and be capable of giving sound advice disentangled from personal insecurities.
Write a clear topic sentence with a main idea at the end of it.
Begin developing your main idea. I start by comparing old and young people.
I further develop it by listing the specific experiences that make a person less of a narcissist.
Continue developing in your last sentence and relate it back to the overall topic question.
1. The other reason that older people give better advice is that they have opinions shaped through years of experience. 2. Young people tend to be more idealistic and less willing to consider what is pragmatic. 3. If an individual has had a family they will have to navigate work/life balance issues, raising a child, intimacy, and financial obstacles. 4. They will develop coping mechanisms and methods to deal with these problems and be able to pass them on to anyone in search of guidance. 5. Young people could give similar advice, but since it is not based on experience and has not been tested, it is less likely to be effective.
Write another topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end. Only write with this structure if you have two distinct main ideas.
Explain your main idea if necessary.
List specific details/examples.
Continue developing the effect of those details.
I conclude this paragraph by again comparing young and old people.
1. In conclusion, a settled temperament and experience are the factors that favour the counsel of older people. 2. As young people become old people, it is increasingly likely they will see the veracity of this.
Repeat your opinion.
Add in a final detail or thought to conclude your essay.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
There is a growing tendency to seek advice from older, instead of younger, people. In my opinion, this is prudent because older people are less narcissistic and have more mature viewpoints.
Recent research has confirmed the suspicion that our seniors are less self-involved. Just as children begin as complete narcissists incapable of feeling empathy, young people must also work through trauma, hurtful pride and delusions to become healthy. When you get a job, work as part of a team, form friendships and have lovers, you will naturally uncover your own unhealthy drives and slowly replace them with socially constructive ones. This expanded confidence and self-growth allows you to truly listen to what others are saying and be capable of giving sound advice disentangled from personal insecurities.
The other reason that older people give better advice is that they have opinions shaped through years of experience. Young people tend to be more idealistic and less willing to consider what is pragmatic. If an individual has had a family they will have to navigate work/life balance issues, raising a child, intimacy, and financial obstacles. They will develop coping mechanisms and methods to deal with these problems and be able to pass them on to anyone in search of guidance. Young people could give similar advice, but since it is not based on experience and has not been tested, it is less likely to be effective.
In conclusion, a settled temperament and experience are the factors that favour the counsel of older people. As young people become old people, it is increasingly likely they will see the veracity of this.
Answers
growing tendency more and more common
seek advice ask for guidance for problems
prudent cautious and wise
narcissistic only able to meet your own needs
mature viewpoints experienced opinions
confirmed the suspicion was indeed correct
less self-involved not as narcissistic
incapable of feeling empathy cannot feel the emotions of others
trauma terrible, scarring events
hurtful pride arrogance
delusions fantasies
as part of a team in a group
form friendships become friends
naturally uncover in the course of things
unhealthy drives wasteful desires
socially constructive good for all of society
expanded confidence greater self-esteem
self-growth developing
truly listen actually hear out
giving sound advice disentangled giving good guidance free from
personal insecurities self-doubts
give better advice give superior guidance
opinions shaped views molded
idealistic overly optimistic
less willing don’t want to
pragmatic practical
navigate work/life balance issues work through issues with your time
raising a child being a parent
intimacy close connection
financial obstacles money problems
develop coping mechanisms deal with through habits
There is a g________________y to s_____________e from older, instead of younger, people. In my opinion, this is p________t because older people are less n_____________c and have more m____________________s.
Recent research has c________________________n that our seniors are le___________________d. Just as children begin as complete narcissists i____________________________y, young people must also work through t__________a, h________________e and d______________s to become healthy. When you get a job, work a___________________m, f____________________s and have lovers, you will n________________________r your own u____________________s and slowly replace them with s_____________________e ones. This e_________________________e and s_______________h allows you to t___________________n to what others are saying and be capable of g_________________________________d from p_________________________s.
The other reason that older people g_______________________e is that they have o_____________________d through years of experience. Young people tend to be more i___________________c and l____________________g to consider what is p_________________c. If an individual has had a family they will have to n____________________________________s, r_________________d, i_______________y, and f_______________________s. They will d_____________________________s and m________________________h these problems and be able to p_______________________n to anyone i_______________________________e. Young people could give similar advice, but since it is not based on experience and has not been tested, it is less likely to be e_________________e.
In conclusion, a s____________________________t and experience are the factors that f__________________________l of older people. As young people become old people, it is i______________________y they will s________________________y of this.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Watch the video below for some good advice from old and young people!
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of vehicles registered in Australia in 2010, 2012, and 2014 from the real IELTS exam/test.
The overview for this one is very simple because they already give you the general trends but there is still one tricky area that many students may forget about.
Read my answer below to find out the tricky part of the overview.
Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!
Before reading, listen to the audio and make notes:
IELTS Writing Task 1 Sample Answer Essay: Vehicles in Australia Table (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)
IELTS Writing Task 1 Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
The table gives an account of the kinds of vehicles registered in Australia in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Registrations for all vehicles increased, though the growth in motorcycles and light trucks stands out most. Despite a smaller percentile increase, the totals for passenger vehicles were by far the highest and light trucks were lowest.
Passenger and commercial vehicles led total registrations throughout with the former beginning at 11.8 million in 2010 before rising by .9 million and .3 million, for a 10.2% overall jump. The latter underwent a 17.4% climb, going from 2.3 million to 2.6 million and finally 2.7 million by 2014.
The 3 remaining types of vehicles were considerably less common. The respective starting points for each were 540,000 motorcycles, 384,000 heavy trucks and 106,000 light trucks. Motorcycles rose the most rapidly, with a more than 30% increase to 709,000 by the end of the period. Heavy trucks made marginal gains totaling 8.3%, which amounted to 416,00 registrations in 2014. Finally, 124,000 new light trucks were registered in 2012 and an additional 131,000 in 2014 (translating to a 23.5% increase).
Word Count: 170
Analysis
1. The table gives an account of the kinds of vehicles registered in Australia in 2010, 2012, and 2014. 2. Registrations for all vehicles increased, though the growth in motorcycles and light trucks stands out most. 3. Despite a smaller percentile increase, the totals for passenger vehicles were by far the highest and light trucks were lowest.
Paraphrase what the table shows.
Include the trend for all areas – do they go up, down or stay the same? You can also highlight if one increased a lot, as I did with light trucks.
To get full marks for your overview, also include the overall rankings. Even though light trucks increased the most, it was lowest overall while passenger vehicles was by far the highest.
1. Passenger and commercial vehicles led total registrations throughout with the former beginning at 11.8 million in 2010 before rising by .9 million and .3 million, for a 10.2% overall jump. 2. The latter underwent a 17.4% climb, going from 2.3 million to 2.6 million and finally 2.7 million by 2014.
Begin describing the data. Try to group together the highest and lowest categories.
Finish describing and comparing the data for those categories.
1. The 3 remaining types of vehicles were considerably less common. 2. The respective starting points for each were 540,000 motorcycles, 384,000 heavy trucks and 106,000 light trucks. 3. Motorcycles rose the most rapidly, with a more than 30% increase to 709,000 by the end of the period. 4. Heavy trucks made marginal gains totaling 8.3%, which amounted to 416,00 registrations in 2014. 5. Finally, 124,000 new light trucks were registered in 2012 and an additional 131,000 in 2014 (translating to a 23.5% increase).
Compare the lower categories.
Here I list the starting point for all the kinds of vehicles.
Now I describe how one of them changed – make sure you include all the data!
I next write about heavy trucks. Try to vary up your grammar and vocbulary.
I finish with the last are. You do not need a conclusion!
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
The table gives an account of the kinds of vehicles registered in Australia in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Registrations for all vehicles increased, though the growth in motorcycles and light trucks stands out most. Despite a smaller percentile increase, the totals for passenger vehicles were by far the highest and light trucks were lowest.
Passenger and commercial vehicles led total registrations throughout with the former beginning at 11.8 million in 2010 before rising by .9 million and .3 million, for a 10.2% overall jump. The latter underwent a 17.4% climb, going from 2.3 million to 2.6 million and finally 2.7 million by 2014.
The 3 remaining types of vehicles were considerably less common. The respective starting points for each were 540,000 motorcycles, 384,000 heavy trucks and 106,000 light trucks. Motorcycles rose the most rapidly, with a more than 30% increase to 709,000 by the end of the period. Heavy trucks made marginal gains totaling 8.3%, which amounted to 416,00 registrations in 2014. Finally, 124,000 new light trucks were registered in 2012 and an additional 131,000 in 2014 (translating to a 23.5% increase).
Answers
gives an account of illustrates
registrations people reporting their vehicles to the authorities
growth increase
stands out most most striking
smaller percentile increase increased in proportion less
led was first
throughout all during
former mentioned first
jump increase
underwent experienced
climb increase
remaining left over
considerably less common much less popular
respective starting points where each began
most rapidly very fast
by the end of the period at the end of the time surveyed
marginal gains totaling just small increases adding up to
The table g___________________f the kinds of vehicles registered in Australia in 2010, 2012, and 2014. R_____________s for all vehicles increased, though the g______h in motorcycles and light trucks s____________________t. Despite a s_____________________________e, the totals for passenger vehicles were by far the highest and light trucks were lowest.
Passenger and commercial vehicles l__d total registrations t__________t with the f________r beginning at 11.8 million in 2010 before rising by .9 million and .3 million, for a 10.2% overall j____p. The latter u__________t a 17.4% c______b, going from 2.3 million to 2.6 million and finally 2.7 million by 2014.
The 3 r______________g types of vehicles were c________________________n. The r_____________________________s for each were 540,000 motorcycles, 384,000 heavy trucks and 106,000 light trucks. Motorcycles rose the m_____________y, with a more than 30% increase to 709,000 b_______________________d. Heavy trucks made m_________________________g 8.3%, which a______________o 416,00 registrations in 2014. Finally, 124,000 new light trucks were registered in 2012 and an a____________l 131,000 in 2014 (t______________o a 23.5% increase).
Listen and check:
Speaking Practice
Answer the questions below about public transportation from the real IELTS speaking exam:
Driving
Do you like driving?
Where was the last place you drove?
Where do you like to sit in a car?
Is driving common in your country?
Writing Practice
Write about the table below then check my sample answer:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of music and society from the real IELTS exam.
It is a similar to another question about music that you can read here.
The question is very tricky because it is hard to think of clear specific examples and relevant main ideas.
Read what I did with it below!
Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!
Dave
Before reading, listen to the audio and take notes:
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Music & Society (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)
Many people believe that music is just a form of entertainment, whilst others believe that music has a much larger impact on society today.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
There are those who claim that music is solely for entertainment purposes while others feel it has larger societal implications. In my opinion, ostensibly most people listen to music for fun, however it still opens up pathways for fringe elements of society to become mainstream.
Those that argue for the narrower view of music can easily highlight the ways in which music is consumed today. People listen to music at parties, nightclubs, and weddings to dance and enjoy themselves. They listen using streaming services like YouTube, Apple Music and Spotify to relax throughout the average day. The end result of all that listening is not that individuals think deeply about the lyrics or in any way question their actions, attitudes, or prejudices. Moreso than narrative forms of entertainment like movies and books, music is almost purely for entertainment and rarely rises above the level of subconscious enjoyment.
While there is some truth to the argument above, music turns a positive spotlight on previously underrepresented demographic groups. People do not simply listen to music; they are also apt to follow and admire their favourite artists. One of the best examples of this is the championing of LGBT lifestyles. Elton John was an early example of an artist whose sexuality was fluid at a time when many viewed this behaviour as deviant. He did not come out as gay until much later but his influence on aspiring artists and the average listener was immense. Today, there are many artists who are openly gay and this not only reduces bigotry in general by undermining its logic but also inspires others to come out. A person listening to and following artists in any genre today accepts these once alternative lifestyles as the norm.
In conclusion, music has an important role to play in society by giving voice to previously silent groups. In the same way that music broke down racial barriers in the 20th century, the 21st century will be the century of inclusion.
Word Count: 330
Analysis
1. There are those who claim that music is solely for entertainment purposes while others feel it has larger societal implications. 2. In my opinion, ostensibly most people listen to music for fun, however it still opens up pathways for fringe elements of society to become mainstream.
Paraphrase the overall topic for the whole essay.
Write your opinion – make it clear so the examiner knows which side you support!
1. Those that argue for the narrower view of music can easily highlight the ways in which music is consumed today. 2. People listen to music at parties, nightclubs, and weddings to dance and enjoy themselves. 3. They listen using streaming services like YouTube, Apple Music and Spotify to relax throughout the average day. 4. The end result of all that listening is not that individuals think deeply about the lyrics or in any way question their actions, attitudes, or prejudices. 5. Moreso than narrative forms of entertainment like movies and books, music is almost purely for entertainment and rarely rises above the level of subconscious enjoyment.
Write a clear topic sentence with a main idea at the end.
Develop your main idea with specific information.
Keep mentioning specific examples such as real streaming services.
State the result to continue developing the main idea.
Relate it back to the overall topic/your main idea to finish development.
1. While there is some truth to the argument above, music turns a positive spotlight on previously underrepresented demographic groups. 2. People do not simply listen to music; they are also apt to follow and admire their favourite artists. 3. One of the best examples of this is the championing of LGBT lifestyles. 4. Elton John was an early example of an artist whose sexuality was fluid at a time when many viewed this behaviour as deviant. 5. He did not come out as gay until much later but his influence on aspiring artists and the average listener was immense. 6. Today, there are many artists who are openly gay and this not only reduces bigotry in general by undermining its logic but also inspires others to come out. 7. A person listening to and following artists in any genre today accepts these once alternative lifestyles as the norm.
Write another topic sentence with a new main idea.
Start to explain your main idea.
Here I begin a very specific example.
Use a real artist or song if possible!
Develop the example – don’t run away from it.
Keep developing it.
Finish developing your example and generalise it a bit.
1. In conclusion, music has an important role to play in society by giving voice to previously silent groups. 2. In the same way that music broke down racial barriers in the 20th century, the 21st century will be the century of inclusion.
Repeat your opinion.
Add in final detail/thought to get full marks from the IELTS examiner.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
There are those who claim that music is solely for entertainment purposes while others feel it has larger societal implications. In my opinion, ostensibly most people listen to music for fun, however it still opens up pathways for fringe elements of society to become mainstream.
Those that argue for the narrower view of music can easily highlight the ways in which music is consumed today. People listen to music at parties, nightclubs, and weddings to dance and enjoy themselves. They listen using streaming services like YouTube, Apple Music and Spotify to relax throughout the average day. The end result of all that listening is not that individuals think deeply about the lyrics or in any way question their actions, attitudes, or prejudices. Moreso than narrative forms of entertainment like movies and books, music is almost purely for entertainment and rarely rises above the level of subconscious enjoyment.
While there is some truth to the argument above, music turns a positive spotlight on previously underrepresented demographic groups. People do not simply listen to music; they are also apt to follow and admire their favourite artists. One of the best examples of this is the championing of LGBT lifestyles. Elton John was an early example of an artist whose sexuality was fluid at a time when many viewed this behaviour as deviant. He did not come out as gay until much later but his influence on aspiring artists and the average listener was immense. Today, there are many artists who are openly gay and this not only reduces bigotry in general by undermining its logic but also inspires others to come out. A person listening to and following artists in any genre today accepts these once alternative lifestyles as the norm.
In conclusion, music has an important role to play in society by giving voice to previously silent groups. In the same way that music broke down racial barriers in the 20th century, the 21st century will be the century of inclusion.
Answers
claim argue
solely only
larger societal implications bigger effect on everyone
There are those who c__________ that music is s__________ for entertainment purposes while others feel it has l__________________. In my opinion, o_____________ most people listen to music for fun, however it still o________________ for f______________ of society to become m_______________.
Those that argue for the n_______________ of music can e___________________ the ways in which music is c_________________ today. People listen to music at parties, nightclubs, and weddings to dance and enjoy themselves. They listen using s____________________ like YouTube, Apple Music and Spotify to relax t________________ the a___________________. The e_______________ of all that listening is not that individuals t________________ about the lyrics or in any way q_______________ their actions, attitudes, or p_____________. M____________ than n______________ of entertainment like movies and books, music is almost p_______________ for entertainment and r_________________________________.
While there is s_____________ to the argument above, music turns a p__________________ on p___________________________________________________. People do not simply listen to music; they are also a_____________ follow and a_________ their favourite artists. One of the best examples of this is the c___________________ of L_______________. Elton John was an e_________________ of an artist whose s______________ was f____________ at a time when many viewed this behaviour as d___________. He did not c______________ until much later but his influence on a________________ and the a______________ was i_____________. Today, there are many artists who are o____________ and this not only r___________________ by u_____________ its l________ but also i__________ others to come out. A person listening to and following artists in any g___________ today a_________ these o_______________________ as t__________.
In conclusion, music has an important role to play in society by g_______________ to previously silent groups. I_______________________ music b______________________ in the 20th century, the 21st century will be the century of i_________________.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Watch the video below to learn more about gay rights:
Reading Practice
Read some examples here of socially important/defining songs:
This is an IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer essay from the real IELTS exam/test related to the topic of staying fit.
It’s an easy topic but difficult when you actually start writing about it.
Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!
Dave
*Before reading it, listen to the audio below and take notes to improve your listening:
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer General Training: Staying Fit (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)
Some believe that the best way to stay fit is to join a gym or health club while others think doing everyday activities such as walking and climbing stairs is enough.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
Many think that going to the gym is unnecessary and you can get in adequate shape simply through your day-to-day routine. In my opinion, there are benefits to a generally active lifestyle but joining a gym is still the best guarantee of a basic level of fitness.
The health benefits of everyday activities are apparent for those who are very active walkers. Doctors advise the average person to walk 10,000 steps a day to be healthy. These steps can now be easily recorded with a FitBit or Apple Watch, which means that there is less need than ever to set aside gym time. This clear goal can encourage individuals to become more aware of their daily habits and slowly change or supplement them. For example, instead of taking the elevator to one’s apartment or work, you can add a few hundred steps by taking the stairs. While at work you can walk around more often and all your progress will be digitally recorded. This dedication may become habit, eliminating the need for regular, dedicated workouts.
Despite the advantages of walking detailed above, the gym nets more impactful results. The number one leading cause of death globally is heart disease and the only way to combat it is through dietary changes and exercise. Researchers have long extolled the benefits of aerobic exercise for heart health. The most effective aerobic workouts happen at the gym on treadmills and ellipticals. Many doctors recommend that patients at risk of heart disease sign up for gym memberships and commit to a regular workout schedule as walking alone does not provide the intense workout required to strengthen the heart and prevent early death.
In conclusion, going to the gym is crucial to being in good shape. Healthy habits ranging from good nutrition to taking part in sports to making time for the gym are important checks against the inclination today towards a passive, sedentary lifestyle.
Word Count: 315
Analysis
1. Many think that going to the gym is unnecessary and you can get in adequate shape simply through your day-to-day routine. 2. In my opinion, there are benefits to a generally active lifestyle but joining a gym is still the best guarantee of a basic level of fitness.
Paraphrase the overall topic for the whole essay.
Give your opinion – make it clear.
1. The health benefits of everyday activities are apparent for those who are very active walkers. 2. Doctors advise the average person to walk 10,000 steps a day to be healthy. 3. These steps can now be easily recorded with a FitBit or Apple Watch, which means that there is less need than ever to set aside gym time. 4. This clear goal can encourage individuals to become more aware of their daily habits and slowly change or supplement them. 5. For example, instead of taking the elevator to one’s apartment or work, you can add a few hundred steps by taking the stairs. 6. While at work you can walk around more often and all your progress will be digitally recorded. 7. This dedication may become habit, eliminating the need for regular, dedicated workouts.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Begin to develop it.
Use specific examples like the Apple Watch and FitBit.
State the result of your specific examples.
Continue to develop your main idea.
The more you develop it, the higher your task achievement score will be.
Finish the paragraph by stating the overall result related to the question.
1. Despite the advantages of walking detailed above, the gym nets more impactful results. 2. The number one leading cause of death globally is heart disease and the only way to combat it is through dietary changes and exercise. 3. Researchers have long extolled the benefits of aerobic exercise for heart health. 4. The most effective aerobic workouts happen at the gym on treadmills and ellipticals. 5. Many doctors recommend that patients at risk of heart disease sign up for gym memberships and commit to a regular workout schedule as walking alone does not provide the intense workout required to strengthen the heart and prevent early death.
Write about topic sentence with another clear main idea at the end.
Begin developing that main idea. You might have to explain your main idea first.
Use researchers if possible but don’t quote specific research.
Include specific details and use strong vocabulary.
This is a very long, complex sentence. Only write these if you are very confident in your English.
1. In conclusion, going to the gym is crucial to being in good shape. 2. Healthy habits ranging from good nutrition to taking part in sports to making time for the gym are important checks against the inclination today towards a passive, sedentary lifestyle.
Repeat your opinion.
Add a final detail or thought to get full marks from the IELTS examiner for task achievement.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many think that going to the gym is unnecessary and you can get in adequate shape simply through your day-to-day routine. In my opinion, there are benefits to a generally active lifestyle but joining a gym is still the best guarantee of a basic level of fitness.
The health benefits of everyday activities are apparent for those who are very active walkers. Doctors advise the average person to walk 10,000 steps a day to be healthy. These steps can now be easily recorded with a FitBit or Apple Watch, which means that there is less need than ever to set aside gym time. This clear goal can encourage individuals to become more aware of their daily habits and slowly change or supplement them. For example, instead of taking the elevator to one’s apartment or work, you can add a few hundred steps by taking the stairs. While at work you can walk around more often and all your progress will be digitally recorded. This dedication may become habit, eliminating the need for regular, dedicated workouts.
Despite the advantages of walking detailed above, the gym nets more impactful results. The number one leading cause of death globally is heart disease and the only way to combat it is through dietary changes and exercise. Researchers have long extolled the benefits of aerobic exercise for heart health. The most effective aerobic workouts happen at the gym on treadmills and ellipticals. Many doctors recommend that patients at risk of heart disease sign up for gym memberships and commit to a regular workout schedule as walking alone does not provide the intense workout required to strengthen the heart and prevent early death.
In conclusion, going to the gym is crucial to being in good shape. Healthy habits ranging from good nutrition to taking part in sports to making time for the gym are important checks against the inclination today towards a passive, sedentary lifestyle.
Answers
unnecessary not needed
adequate shape fit enought
day-to-day routine daily activities
generally active lifestyle getting up to a lot
best guarantee most likely chance of
basic level of fitness minimum health
health benefits good for your health
apparent ostensible
active walkers people who walk a lot
advise give advice
easily recorded can be tracked simply
FitBit a watch for checking your health
less need than ever not so important
set aside gym time go work out
clear goal obvious aim
aware know about
daily habits what you do everyday
supplement add to, complement
taking the elevator using the elevator
progress moving forward
digitally recorded make a record of
dedication commitment to
eliminating getting rid of
regular everyday, consistently
dedicated workouts exercising for a specific purpose
detailed above mentioned before
nets gains/gets you
impactful results effective
leading cause of death globally most people around the world die from this
heart disease heart attacks, high cholesterol, etc.
Many think that going to the gym is u_______________ and you can get in a_______________ simply through your d_______________. In my opinion, there are benefits to a g_______________ but joining a gym is still the b_______________ of a b_______________.
The h_______________ of everyday activities are a_______________ for those who are very a_______________. Doctors a_______________ the average person to walk 10,000 steps a day to be healthy. These steps can now be e_______________ with a F_______________ or Apple Watch, which means that there is l_______________ to s_______________. This c_______________ can encourage individuals to become more a_______________ of their d_______________ and slowly change or s_______________ them. For example, instead of t_______________ to one’s apartment or work, you can add a few hundred steps by taking the stairs. While at work you can walk around more often and all your p_______________ will be d_______________. This d_______________ may become habit, e_______________ the need for r_______________, d_______________.
Despite the advantages of walking d_______________, the gym n_______________ more i_______________. The number one l_______________ is h_______________ and the only way to c_______________ it is through d_______________ and exercise. Researchers have long e_______________ the benefits of a_______________ for heart health. The most effective aerobic workouts happen at the gym on t_______________ and e_______________. Many doctors recommend that p_______________ at risk of heart disease s_______________ and c_______________ as walking alone does not provide the i_______________ to s_______________ the heart and p_______________.
In conclusion, going to the gym is c_______________ to being in good shape. Healthy habits r_______________ good n_______________ to t_______________ to m_______________ for the gym are important c_______________ against the i_______________ today towards a p_______________, s_______________.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Here’s a video about taking 10,000 steps a day to lose weight:
"The highest quality materials anywhere on the internet! Dave improved my writing and vocabulary so much. Really affordable options you don't want to miss out on!"
